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Congress Sets Jan. 5 Nationwide 'Save MGNREGA' Drive After Rural Jobs Law Enacted

Congress frames the new jobs law as a dilution of rural rights that shifts costs to states.

Overview

  • At an extended CWC meeting in New Delhi, Congress resolved to launch the MGNREGA Bachao Abhiyan nationwide from January 5, 2026.
  • The move follows Parliament’s passage of the VB‑G RAM G Act in the winter session and the President’s assent, which made it law replacing MGNREGA.
  • The new framework guarantees 125 days of work and shifts financing to a Centre–state cost share widely described as 60:40 for most states.
  • Party leaders accuse the government of removing Mahatma Gandhi’s name, weakening a rights‑based, demand‑driven guarantee, and say the decision was taken unilaterally by the Prime Minister’s Office.
  • State units are beginning local actions, with Telangana Congress staging village‑level protests on December 28 carrying Gandhi portraits.